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Caption

Male Cape weaver (Ploceus capensis) constructing a nest in an urban area near Cape Town. Male Cape weavers are polygynous territorial colonial nesting birds with multiple females. During the mating season each male builds multiple nests within a small territory. The construction of the nest is thoroughly examined by females who test the sturdiness of the nest by pulling on the structure. Only once the female is satisfied with the structure of the nest will she consent to mating. Whilst construction of the nest is taking place, breeding male birds often display whenever females are present in an effort to attract their attention.